I'm curious if there are specific times of the year that are best for buying lumber in terms of price and quality. I'm considering purchasing a supply of lumber for future projects, so any tips on timing would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Honestly, I think the quality of lumber doesn't vary much throughout the year when buying from a lumber yard. It’s more about the techniques used by the mills. Some local sawyers might have quality dried in solar kilns which is great, but if you can connect with one, you'll score some good deals. Just be prepared for some work, like running rough lumber through jointers and planers if you want the best results, but that’s all part of the journey!
I've noticed that after my morning coffee is when I feel most ready to tackle my lumber shopping! But seriously, if you're looking for more practical tips, I'd suggest checking out local high-end, small volume furniture makers. They often source amazing rough lumber at a fraction of what lumber yards charge. Also, be cautious with Facebook Marketplace—some sellers price their wood like it's premium quality, but you can usually find better deals at legit lumber yards.
If you're in a suburban area, keep your eyes peeled for home remodels. People often throw out 2x4s and other usable wood during renovations. Sometimes, you can find gems like tight-grained Doug fir or old redwood from houses built decades ago. It's a fun way to save wood and help the environment since you're reusing rather than buying new!
Thanks for the insights! I hadn’t thought about checking local sawyers. Sounds like it could be worth the effort!